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Optical Readout for Magnetic Nanostructures

Early computers utilized windings of copper wire to form magnetic cores that performed logic functions, i.e., processed inputs and created corresponding outputs. Although the magnetic cores were impervious to external power fluctuations (e.g., lightning strikes, electrical storms, electromagnetic pulses) and drew no power when turned off, the processing systems were large. Magnetic processors were therefore displaced by microprocessors utilizing integrated circuitry, which have fueled the miniaturization and widespread use of consumer goods for the past forty years.

However, electronic processors are now approaching the size limits of integrated circuit technology, and new technologies are needed to continue the miniaturization trend.

Dartmouth College holds patent applications relating to micromagnetic logic devices. The logic devices have the benefits described above for the magnetic core systems (i.e., low power requirements and indefinite data retention during power interruptions), but, in addition, they are extremely small with an ultimate area density approximated at 400 Gbits/in2. The Dartmouth patent applications also provide practical methods for optically reading data stored within the micromagnetic logic devices.

These technologies are claimed in the published PCT Application No. PCT/US2007/075737. Dartmouth is seeking an industrial partner interested in licensing and commercializing these technologies.(Ref: J375, J381)